European Christmas Drink: Mulled Wine

Come the holiday season, there is nothing that warms you up better than a glass of warm, spiced red wine. As soon as December starts, one of the first things I love to make is mulled wine. It tastes like Christmas in a cup and is super easy to enjoy. I first tried this drink in England years ago and ever since, it is something I look forward to each year. So how do you make this European Christmas drink? Quite simple. All you need is:

1 bottle (750ml) of red wine

3 cinnamon sticks

3 whole star anise

3 whole cloves

3 whole peppercorns

1 orange – cut into circles

1/3 cup of sugar (can use more, can use less…use to taste)

In a large sauce pan, pour in the bottle of wine on a low to medium heat

Stir in some of the sugar, along with the star anise, cloves, and peppercorns.

Let the wine heat up for 6-8 minutes. Taste to see the sweetness level. If you would like it a bit more sweeter, just add in the rest of the sugar.

Place the cinnamon sticks in along with the orange slices.

Heat over low heat for 15 minutes, stir occasionally.

Pour into glasses and garnish with a cinnamon stick or fresh orange slice.

If you happen to be in London, head to the Borough Market for a cup of this!